Thailand and Japan signed a memorandum of intention for the development of high speed rail and urban rail systems. The project is part of the infrastructure investment programme valued at 2.2 trillion baht to be implemented over the coming years. In September 2010, the Thai cabinet approved the implementation of public-private partnership (PPP) for the project. Phase I, with an expected completion date of 2018 and an investment of 400 billion baht, comprises four routes along existing lines: Bangkok–Pattaya, Bangkok–Pitsanulok, Bangkok–Nakhon Ratchasima, and Bangkok– Hua Hin. Phase II, which should end by 2022, consists of four new routes: Bangkok–Rayong, Bangkok–Chiang Mai, Bangkok–Nong Khai, and Bangkok–Hat Yai.
